Vernon Special Olympians Honored at State Capitol

VERNON, CT - Local Special Olympics athletes were treated to a day at the state Capitol last week.

The four Vernon athletes were congratulated by legislators for having qualified to compete in the Special Olympics World Winter Games 2017 in Austria.

State Rep. Claire Janowski, D-Vernon and state Rep. Timothy Ackert, R-Coventry, were among the legislators presenting awards to the athletes and their coaches. Ackert and Janowski represent Vernon in the state House of Representatives.

“I’d like to congratulate all of the athletes on this spectacular accomplishment – clearly their hard work has paid off,” said Janowski said.

The athletes who were recognized are:

• Natasha De Elye Cole – cross country skiing.
• Scott Grupe – Alpine skiing.
• Rebecca Lamoin – Alpine skiing.
• Stacey Shorts – snow shoeing.

Janowski said one presentation was quite personal.

“It was a special treat to be able to present an award to one of my constituents, Stacey Shorts. I’ve known Stacey and her family since she was a child, and I’m so impressed by what she has achieved," she said. "Connecticut will be cheering for all of our Special Olympics athletes in the Winter Games, and I wish them the best of luck.”

The Special Olympics host competitions in 32 different Olympic sports for more than 4.2 million athletes across the world.